Abstract:
An automotive interior trim component includes a rigid substrate member that forms the structural support for the trim component. A portion of the substrate member has a thickness that is reduced relative to surrounding portions of the substrate member to define a target area for providing a soft feel to the trim component. The trim component may further include a flexible cover layer and a backing member disposed on a side of the substrate member opposite the cover layer. The substrate member and cover layer may be formed in a two-shot molding operation.
Abstract:
A method of forming an airbag assembly for a vehicle including the steps of providing a sheet of hinge material, where the hinge material includes a sheet of scrim material encapsulated within a polymer. Next, a panel is provided that is formed of a substrate material. An under face of the panel may have a tear seam to allow an airbag to exit the panel body when the airbag is deployed, and the tear seam may define an airbag door. Next, a first portion of the sheet of hinge material is secured to the panel within the airbag door defined by the tear seam. Securing the hinge material to the panel may occur by vibration welding a portion of the hinge material to the panel. A second portion of the sheet of hinge material is secured to the airbag housing and an airbag housing is secured to the panel. The hinge material may be secured to the airbag housing such that a third portion of the sheet of hinge material forms a loop.